Common Winter Roof Problems To Watch Out For

Posted on Nov 13, 2014 11:34pm PST

Over time, unattended roof damages can worsen and become more severe. Something
as small as a few missing shingles can become a dangerous roofing problem.
It's important that you inspect your rooftop at least once a year
for any signs of deterioration and structural harm. Identifying your roofing
problems early on can save you a lot of hassle financially and physically.
This is because you are able to quickly and more easily repair the small
issues before they turn into bigger issues. As winter approaches, there
are a few specific roof hazards that you should be aware of. Here, we
present three of those snowy and icy issues that you can can prepare for
this upcoming winter.

Ice Dams

Example of an ice dam. Image: .bobvila.com

Causes:

Ice dams are created from the snow that is accumulated up a top the roof.
The warmth from inside a house slightly melts the inner layers of the
rooftop snow. However, since the inside of a house is not hot enough to
completely melt off the snow, the slow melting water collects and freezes
again. This is the pattern that forms ice dams and they are heavy. The
slightly melted snow can seep into the shingles and dismantle them as
the water refreezes into the roof. This damage leads to roof leaks inside
your home.

Solutions:

There are two ways you can address ice dams. One is to way is to blow cold
air up against the ceiling to prevent the snow and ice from melting on
your roof. The second solution is to remove the ice and snow on the roof
using a rake to gently scrape them off. However, because clearing off
a slick and slippery roof is a pretty dangerous job, you might want to
discuss it with Apex Ext, your local Schaumburg Roof Repair company.

Condensation

Example of condensation under the roof. Image: monier.co.uk

Causes:

Much like ice dams, condensation is what happens when water or melted snow
sinks into porous roof materials such as wood and foil insulation. The
trapped water expands when it freezes and creates cracks and breakage
in the roof and ceiling. Both large and small leaks can form due to condensation
and the integrity of the roof is often compromised with this kind of damage.

Solutions:

The most effective solution for condensation is to remove any water build
up on the roof. You can do this through proper venting and insulation
and by swiftly repairing all noticeable holes and cracks in the roof and
ceiling. Recognize the signs of condensation such as black or white residue
on the roof structures. If you suspect you may have a condensation problem
have your Schaumburg repair specialists do a thorough roof inspection for you.

Icicles

Icicles may be pretty but they can cause damage. Image: quarve.com

Causes:

Normally, your first response to icicles in admiration. Unfortunately,
these beautiful water crystals are the results of ice dams and cause some
serious harm to your home. Icicles are formed when ice dams spill over
the ends of the house and then freeze mid drip. Depending on their size
and the length of time they remain on your house icicles can rot your
roof, smash your windows and even tear down your gutters.

Solutions:

Although, you may be tempted to knock down the icicles by yourself, this
is a risky idea. Because you just don't know how much damage has been
done to your gutters you could potentially harm yourself and your home
in the process of tearing down icicles. A better solution would be to
use heat tape across the ends of your roof, this will prevent icicles
from even forming along your house. You could even have a professional
come along and prepare your home for winter.

Naturally, because nobody wants endure roofing problems, especially in
the winter, it's important to resolve and repair any damages or issues
as soon as possible. Early detection and proper prevention makes for a
much happier and stressless winter season. If you do, however, notice
anything peculiar about your roof at anytime during the year, don't
hesitate to call your Schaumburg Roof Repair company for assistance. We'll
be happy to answer any questions you may have regarding the state of your roof.